What a rehabilitation success story: a former prison, this elegant hotel became one of Istanbul's premier accommodations the instant it opened in 1996. This neoclassical building, painted a buttery yellow and decorated with aqua-blue tiles, is steps from Topkapi Palace and Aya Sofya. Rooms and suites overlook the Sea of Marmara, the old city, or a manicured interior courtyard, and are luxuriously outfitted with reading chairs, original works of art, and bathrooms with deep tubs. In 2010, the hotel is to open a new wing—with more rooms, a spa, and swimming pool—built on stilts so as to showcase the archeological site of a Byzantine palace below. Pros: historic building surrounded by major tourist attractions; luxurious accommodations; exceptional service. Cons: breakfast not included and expensive; high charge for Internet.
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